Sumitomo Chemical cuts LCD material output capacity amid China's rise

Japanese manufacturer will exit production in China and South Korea

Sumitomo Chemical has decided to reduce production capacity for film used in large LCD panels, such as those used in TVs. (Photo obtained by Nikkei)

EMI OKADA

January 27, 2025 03:45 JST

TOKYO -- Sumitomo Chemical will reduce its production capacity for polarizing film used in LCD panels in a pullback reflecting Chinese manufacturers' rise in the market.

The company decided in late 2024 to sell Chinese subsidiaries manufacturing polarizing film for large LCD panels. It will also withdraw from production in South Korea and repurpose the site for products for organic light-emitting diodes.